Cook Aide

Department: Early Childhood | Location: The Bronx | Reports to: Site Director

About the role

The Cook is responsible for implementation of food services in Grand Street Settlement’s Early Child Care Programs serving children ages 0-5 in accordance with Department of Health, CACFP and Head Start Performance Standards. For the start-up phase (first 2 years) this will be an evolving position; interim roles and responsibilities will be adjusted and flexibility is required. Responsibilities will be revisited once all center-based sites are fully operational.

Responsibilities

• Prepare nutritious, USDA-approved meals that respect children’s cultural backgrounds and individual nutritional needs.
• Use child nutritional guidelines and age-specific portion sizes in accordance with USDA, Head Start, and CACFP standards.
• Strictly adhere to health, safety, food handling, and sanitation requirements before, during, and after meal preparation.
• Prepare and participate in family-style meals for children, volunteers, and staff.
• Maintain nutrition record-keeping and reporting as directed by the supervisor.
• Review food and supplies order sheets; store food and supplies properly.
• Monitor and maintain proper food temperatures.
• Prepare catered meals, order food substitutions, and follow the menu.
• Collaborate with Nutritionist, Health Coordinator, and/or Health Specialist.
• Maintain cleanliness of all kitchen materials and supplies as required.
• Be aware of and accommodate center allergies and dietary concerns.
• Train assistants, substitutes, and volunteers to support kitchen duties.
• Coordinate delivery of food to classrooms.
• Attend staff meetings and relevant trainings.
• Stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent, plus current food handler’s certificate.
• Experience in purchasing and preparing culturally diverse foods for groups.
• Knowledge of early childhood nutrition.
• Basic computer skills for record keeping.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Clearance through DOI Fingerprint Screening, NYS Central Registry, and Sex Offender Registry.
• Three reference checks and a physical examination with updated TB test, varicella, Tdap, and MMR (fees may apply).
• Obtain Mandated Reporter training certificate (renew every 2 years) and comply with agency policy on identifying and reporting child abuse and neglect.

Pay

$33,652.80–$34,486.72 per year

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:00 pm or 9:00 am–5:00 pm. Schedule may vary due to program needs.

Benefits

• Family/health insurance.
• 24 vacation days (includes planned program closures).
• Life insurance.
• 401k plan with 5% employer contribution.
• 4 personal days and 12 sick days.
• Scholarships and ongoing professional development opportunities.